[Boston—Saturday, 15 April 1865]

April 15. Last night when I shut this book I wondered a little what event or person would come next, powerful enough to compel me to write a few words and before I was dressed this morning the news of the assassination of the President became our only thought.

The President; Seward, & his son.

Mrs Andrew came in before 9 o’clock to ask if we thought it would be expected of her to receive “the Club” on Monday. We decided “no” immediately, which chimed with her desire.

The city is weighed down by sadness. But Dr Holmes expresses his philosophy for the consolation of all. “It will unite the North” he says. “It is more than likely that Lincoln was not the best man for the work of re-construction” &c. His faith keeps him from the shadows which surround many.

But it is a black day for us all.

J. Wilkes Booth is in custody. Poor Edwin is in Boston.


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